England captain Jamie Peacock has announced his international retirement with immediate effect.
The Leeds prop has decided to call time on his 12-year career on the international stage, although he will play on with Leeds, having recently signed a new two-year contract taking him to the end of 2014.
England coach Steve McNamara must now find a new skipper for next Wednesday's second international origin game against the Exiles as well as the 2013 World Cup.
Peacock made his England debut against Russia in the 2000 World Cup and led England for the last time in their 18-10 win over the Exiles earlier this month.
"The last achievement I felt I could have with England would be to right the wrong and beat the Exiles team and this has happened," he said.
"To play and captain your country is the highest honour within the game and this was a decision that was not taken lightly.
"In 2000, when I made my debut, it was beyond my wildest ambition and dreams that I would then go onto represent my country nearly 50 times and captain them for seven years.
"I felt that the time would be right for me to step down and solely concentrate on playing for my club.
"The focus for Steve McNamara and the England team has to be the objective of trying to win the Rugby League World Cup next year and for the next generation of players to be part of that process."
McNamara said: "Jamie Peacock is rugby league's ultimate warrior. It has been a privilege and an honour to coach Jamie at international level.
"He has given every ounce of blood, sweat and tears to the national set-up and it will be a massive challenge to replace such a fantastic athlete and captain."
